Commission Chair Bell questions release of suspect in officer's death

Published on April 06, 2021

Wayne County Commission Chair Alisha Bell (D-Detroit) has joined those speaking out against the release of the suspect in the shooting death of Detroit Police Sgt. Elaine Williams.

"Sgt. Williams was tiny, but mighty, and a strong, positive presence in the district I represent," Chair Bell said. "To release this suspect in unthinkable. This is a time when we must stand together as a community in support of those who dedicate their lives to protecting us."

The suspect, Eddie Ray-Jr. Johnson is awaiting trial on a charge of first-degree premeditated murder in the June 2019 shooting death of Sgt. Williams at the home they shared. He also is the father of her five-year-old son.

The trial has been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wayne County Circuit Judge Lawrence Talon last week granted Johnson a medical release from jail based on posting $10,000 bond and an agreement the suspect wear a GPS tether.

Members of Sgt. Williams' family, police officials and Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy have also criticized that decision, noting that the terms are more in line with those given non-violent offenders, not murder suspects

Commission Chair Bell questions release of suspect in officer's death(PDF, 157KB)